Snail Kite Research Technician - Florida

The Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is based out of the University of Florida in Gainesville and oversees several ongoing wetland-related research projects. We are seeking two highly motivated six-month technicians to assist with a long-term study of the endangered Snail Kite. We are monitoring the Snail Kite population via mark-recapture methods as well as making behavioral observations and collecting data related to foraging ecology. Field work for this project is conducted throughout the wetland ecosystems of central and south Florida from the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes (near Orlando) to the Everglades (near Miami). Field work involves the extensive use and operation of airboats. Applicants must be willing to work long, flexible hours while maintaining a positive attitude in a hot, humid environment; some days involve working from sunrise to sunset. All necessary training will be provided, including airboat operation and maintenance. Duties include mark-recapture surveys, behavioral observations, nest searching, handling and banding Snail Kite nestlings, data entry and maintenance of field equipment and boats. Applicants must be able to get in and out of boats in deep water, walk up to .3 miles through water, lift 50lbs, and be able to read color bands.

Salary: $12/hour + free housing. Housing will be provided at the Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area south of St. Cloud, FL. Applicants should be comfortable living in a field house with only a few other coworkers. A six-month commitment from approximately late-January to mid-July 2022 is required and the ideal technician has potential to be extended into a Crew Lead position.

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Wildlife, or a related field. Applicant must have a valid U.S. driver's license. Ability to comfortably band and handle wild raptors is preferred, but not necessary. Basic mechanical repair skills and troubleshooting knowledge strongly preferred. This position starts the last week of January 2022 and continues until July of 2022. Interested persons should send a resume with a cover letter and contact information for three references to Lara Elmquist (EM: snailkites@gmail.com). Applications will be reviewed upon submission. For questions see our website https://www.snailkite.org or contact Lara Elmquist via email.